Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

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This easy apple crisp with vanilla ice cream is the perfect dessert for busy families, fall gatherings, and anyone craving cozy comfort food made from scratch. It’s warm, buttery, and full of cinnamon-spiced apples, topped with a crisp oat crumble and served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

It’s the kind of simple, wholesome recipe that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this classic dessert is always a hit.

As a home cook who loves creating easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, I always come back to this recipe. It’s quick to prep, uses ingredients I usually have on hand, and fills the house with the most inviting aroma while it bakes.

The mix of tart and sweet apples, the warm spices, and that buttery crisp topping are comfort food at its best, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe Highlights

• Vegetarian
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Great for fall, holidays, or weeknight treats
• No need to make pie crust, faster and easier than apple pie
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for guests or family meals

Ingredients for Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

This easy fall dessert comes together with basic ingredients that deliver big flavor:

For the Filling:

• Apples: Use a mix like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balance
• Sugar: A blend of granulated and brown sugar adds depth
• Warm spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice
• Lemon juice & cornstarch: To brighten and thicken the filling

For the Topping:

• Old-fashioned oats and all-purpose flour for structure
• Brown and white sugar for sweetness and crunch
• Cold butter: Creates that irresistible crumble
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds texture and nuttiness

To Serve:

• Vanilla ice cream – classic and creamy
• Caramel sauce – optional, but highly recommended!

How to Make Apple Crisp – Step-by-Step

1. Preheat Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Filling:
   Toss thinly sliced apples with sugar, spices, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread in the dish.
3. Make the Topping:
   Combine oats, flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly, then mix in nuts if using.
4. Assemble:
   Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 35–40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Cool Slightly:
   Let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the juices settle and the crisp firms up slightly.
7. Serve:
   Spoon into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if you like.

Serving Suggestions

This apple crisp is best served warm, ideally with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Caramel drizzle or a touch of whipped cream
• A cup of chai tea or hot cider for a cozy fall vibe

It’s also great for casual get-togethers, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or Sunday family dinners.

Skill Level & Prep Time

• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

This is a great recipe for new bakers and a go-to for anyone short on time but still craving homemade dessert.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes for best texture
• You can also prep the crisp ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking

More Cozy Dessert Recipes to Try

You might also enjoy:

• Double Chocolate Fudge
• No-Bake Mini Blueberry Cheesecakes
• Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake

I hope you love this easy apple crisp with vanilla ice cream as much as we do! It’s one of those family-friendly dessert recipes that never gets old. Be sure to save it for later or share it with friends who appreciate a good homemade treat.

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